The National Fish and Chip Awards stand as a testament to the enduring love for this quintessentially British dish. Organised by The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), these awards have a rich history spanning over 36 years, celebrating excellence and innovation within the fish and chip industry. As we look into these awards, exploring categories, finalists, and sponsors like Frymax (who sponsors The Best Newcomer Award!), we uncover a tale of dedication, sustainability, and the ever-evolving landscape of one of the UK’s favourite culinary traditions. Join us on a journey through the National Fish and Chips Awards 2024, where passion meets perfection in every crispy bite.
The History of National Fish and Chips Awards
The history of the National Fish and Chip Awards is a tale of celebration and recognition that spans over three decades. Established to honour and elevate the beloved British tradition of fish and chips, which has its own national holiday, these awards have become a cornerstone in the culinary landscape of the United Kingdom.
In their 36th year, the National Fish & Chip Awards trace their origins to a desire to showcase excellence within the fish and chip industry. Organised by The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), these awards have evolved to encompass various categories that celebrate not only the classic dish but also the innovations and sustainability efforts within the sector.
From the early years, where the focus was primarily on traditional fish and chip takeaways, the awards have expanded to include categories like Fish & Chip Restaurant of the Year, Best Mobile Operator Award, and the prestigious Best Newcomer Award. This evolution mirrors the dynamic nature of the industry, acknowledging the diverse ways in which businesses contribute to the enduring popularity of fish and chips.
Over time, the awards have garnered increased attention and participation from establishments across the UK. The rigorous judging process, which involves mystery shopper visits, taste tests, and assessments of various business aspects, ensures that only the crème de la crème of the industry receives the coveted titles.
The history of the National Fish and Chip Awards is a testament to the resilience and innovation within the fish and chip trade. The awards not only recognise excellence in the present but also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry by encouraging sustainability practices and fostering the growth of newcomers. As the 2024 edition approaches, the rich history of these awards continues to unfold, promising another chapter in the celebration of the iconic British dish—fish and chips.
General Information About the Awards
The National Fish and Chip Awards serves as the ultimate celebration of the timeless British culinary tradition—fish and chips.
How It Works
The awards operate through a meticulous and comprehensive process that ensures a fair evaluation of establishments across various categories. The judging process involves industry experts who scrutinise each aspect of a business, from the quality of the fish and chips to customer service and sustainability practices. Mystery shopper visits, taste tests, and assessments of business innovation contribute to the comprehensive evaluation process.
For certain categories, including the Fish & Chip Takeaway of the Year, businesses may undergo multiple shortlist stages. Shortlisted establishments often face mystery dining visits, providing judges with a real-world perspective of the customer experience. The meticulous evaluation ensures that winners truly represent the pinnacle of success in the industry.
The journey culminates in a grand final awards ceremony, where representatives from the fish and chip sector, sponsors, and finalists gather for an exclusive event. The winners are announced, and the industry comes together to celebrate excellence and innovation!
Who Qualifies
The National Fish & Chip Awards are open to all bona fide fish and chip and food service businesses in the United Kingdom. The eligibility criteria for each award category may vary, and businesses need to adhere to specific entry details for the respective category.
The awards aim to be inclusive, recognising excellence across various segments of the industry. From traditional fish and chip takeaways to innovative restaurants, the diversity of categories ensures that establishments of all sizes and styles have an opportunity to showcase their dedication to the craft.
However, there are certain exclusions. Individuals or businesses that have been declared bankrupt or previously liquidated face restrictions on participation without the permission of the promoter. Additionally, NFFF Board Members or their immediate families are excluded from entering certain categories while serving on the board and for a specified period afterwards.
The National Fish & Chip Awards, with their transparent and inclusive approach, create a level playing field for businesses to showcase their commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. As the awards continue to evolve, they play a vital role in shaping industry standards and ensuring that the tradition of fish and chips thrives in the United Kingdom.
Who is the Promoter of the National Fish and Chip Awards 2024
The promoter of the National Fish and Chip Awards 2024 is The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF). Established in the UK, NFFF has been a stalwart supporter of the fish and chip industry for decades. Their illustrious history dates back to a time when they recognised the need for an organisation dedicated to the welfare and promotion of fish friers across the nation.
NFFF has played a pivotal role in shaping industry standards and promoting excellence. Their commitment to fostering a vibrant and spirited fish and chip industry is evident in the various initiatives they undertake. Notably, NFFF is known for organising the prestigious Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year category, offering young talents a platform to showcase their skills.
Affiliated with the National Fish and Chip Awards, NFFF aligns with the mission of recognising and celebrating outstanding contributions to the industry. Through partnerships with sponsors like Frymax, NFFF ensures the awards not only acknowledge excellence in the present but also encourage the growth and sustainability of the fish and chip trade for future generations. As a promoter with a rich legacy and a commitment to excellence, NFFF stands at the forefront of championing the beloved tradition of fish and chips in the UK.
When are the 2024 Winners Announced?
The eagerly awaited moment for the National Fish and Chip Awards 2024 has been set, and the grand announcement of the winners is scheduled to take place in London in February 2024. This exclusive awards ceremony, organised by The National Federation of Fish Friers, will bring together industry leaders, sponsors, and finalists to celebrate the outstanding achievements in the fish and chip sector. The event promises to be a culmination of meticulous judging processes, recognising excellence, innovation, and sustainability. As the countdown to February continues, the anticipation grows, with the industry and the public alike eager to discover which establishments will claim the coveted titles and be honoured as the best in the nation for their contributions to the timeless British tradition of fish and chips.
National Fish and Chip Awards 2024 Finalists
The excitement surrounding the National Fish & Chip Awards 2024 has reached its peak as the Top 40 finalists for the Fish & Chip Takeaway of the Year category have been announced. These finalists represent the epitome of excellence in the fish and chip industry, hailing from diverse regions across the UK. The judging panel, comprised of industry experts, rigorously assessed these establishments based on environmental practices, product knowledge, and their roles as employers.
The Top 40 Finalists for Fish & Chip Takeaway of the Year 2024 are:
Cumbria
- Angel Lane Chippie – Penrith
Lancashire
- Westgate Fish & Chips – Morecambe
- Westend Fish and Chips – Oswaldtwistle
County Durham
- Yarm Road Fish and Chips – Darlington
Yorkshire
- Lighthouse Fisheries of Flamborough – Bridlington
- The Fish Bank – Sherburn-in-Elmet
- Auckley Friery – Doncaster
- Mr C’s – Selby
Lincolnshire
- Catch 22 – Tattershall
- Angells Fisheries – Newark-on-Trent
- Pips chips – Cleethorpes
- Marina Fish & Chips – Skegness
- Linfords Traditional Fish and Chips – Market Deeping
Greater Manchester
- Eastleigh Town Street Fryer – Marple Bridge
- Chips @ No.8 – Prestwich
Cheshire
- Hooked on the Heath – Knutsford
Herefordshire
- Fiddlers Elbow Fish & Chips – Leintwardine
Bristol
- Bishopston Fish and Chips
Norfolk
- French’s Fish Shop – Wells-next-the-Sea
Essex
- The Fish Inn Clacton – Clacton-on-Sea
- Henley’s of Wivenhoe – Wivenhoe
- Johnny Macs – Colchester
London, Kent, Surrey
- Stones Fish & Chips – London
- Newington Fish Bar – Ramsgate
- Sandy’s Fish and Chip Shop – Folkestone
- Lewis’s Fish and Grill – Maidstone
- Seafare – Guildford
Oxfordshire
- Harrisons Fish & Chip Co. Botley – Oxford
Hampshire
- Mike’s Traditional Fish & Chips – Bishopstoke
- James Backhouse – New Milton
Wales
- Posh Fish and Chip Company – Cardiff
- Fintans Fish & Chip Co – Cardiff
- Hennighan’s Fish & Chip Shop – Machynlleth
- Finneys Fish & Chips – Benllech
- Ship Deck – Caerphilly
- Zero Plus Fish & Chips – Cardiff
Scotland
- The Wee Chippy – Anstruther
- Garioch Fish Bar – Inverurie
- The Fish Works – Largs
Northern Ireland
- Chipmongers – Portstewart
The complete list of finalists reflects the diversity and excellence within the fish and chip trade, setting the stage for a highly anticipated awards ceremony in London in February 2024.
Best Newcomer Award Sponsored by Frymax
The Best Newcomer Award holds special significance in recognising the fresh talent and innovation that contributes to the evolution of the fish and chip industry. Since 2011, Frymax, the UK’s leading frying oil supplier, has proudly sponsored this prestigious award. This sponsorship underscores Frymax’s commitment to supporting and encouraging new and exciting takeaways and restaurants that elevate industry standards, as well as sustainability – exemplified in our RSPO certified palm oil.
Frymax, known for its dedication to quality and excellence in frying oils, understands the importance of fostering the next generation of fish and chip establishments. The partnership with the Best Newcomer Award at the National Fish and Chips Awards aligns with Frymax’s mission to support this important industry’s growth, success, and sustainability for future generations.
As the countdown to the grand final of the National Fish and Chip Awards 2024 continues, the collaboration between Frymax and the Best Newcomer Award adds an extra layer of excitement to an already highly anticipated event. The synergy between a respected industry sponsor and the recognition of emerging talent ensures that the awards not only celebrate the present but also contribute to the future success of the fish and chip trade in the UK.
The National Fish and Chip Awards stand as a testament to the enduring popularity and cultural significance of this beloved British dish. The 2024 edition promises to be a showcase of excellence, innovation, and sustainability, with Frymax’s sponsorship of the Best Newcomer Award playing a pivotal role in encouraging the next generation of fish and chip establishments. Stay tuned for the announcement of the winners and the continued success of the fish and chip industry in the United Kingdom – and plan your next meal out!
Frymax – Supporting the UK Fish & Chip Industry Through Market-Leading Sustainable Palm Oil
Frymax has been the UK’s number one choice in high-quality frying oil since 1954. In that time, the quality of ingredients used in Frymax has never changed, even as our commitment to sustainability has deepened over the years. We remain committed to supplying trans-fat-free, certified palm oil, sourced from suppliers that are just as committed to the RSPO’s principles as we are. For more information don’t hesitate to get in contact with the helpful Frymax team.
